General News
22 July, 2026
Riordan pledges local gas boost
MEMBER for Polwarth Richard Riordan is confirming a Liberal and Nationals government will pledge to unlock more Victorian gas and restore energy security if elected in November.
Mr Riordan said Labor’s decade-long hostility towards the gas industry had left Victorian families and businesses paying more for energy while putting regional industries at risk.
“Polwarth isn’t talking about gas as an abstract policy debate – we live it every day,” he said.
“There is a plentiful gas supply right here in our electorate which is 100 per cent used in Victoria, keeping homes warm, powering industry and supporting thousands of regional jobs.”
Mr Riordan said gas remains an essential energy source for many of Polwarth’s largest employers – including dairy processing, timber processing and food manufacturing, as well as heating thousands of homes across the electorate.
Under the Liberal and Nationals’ plan, a future government will, within 60 days of taking office, launch a state-wide Request for Proposal process inviting industry to identify the best opportunities for new conventional gas exploration.
Projects will continue to be assessed under Victoria’s existing environmental laws while unnecessary approval delays are removed.
An Energy and Resources Cabinet Sub-Committee will also be established to oversee proposals and prioritise new permits under existing Victorian legislation.
Mr Riordan said the policy recognised Victoria’s need for a balanced and practical energy mix as Polwarth has a vital role to play in Victoria’s energy future
“Victoria can reduce emissions while still backing the industries that feed our state, build our economy and employ regional people,” he said.
“That starts with making sure we have enough locally produced gas.
“Backing local gas means backing local jobs, local investment and the businesses that keep our regional economy strong.”